Bulls' Castelamare shines at Scottish volleyball event

USF senior setter Brittany Castelamare was selected MVP of a national team that recently placed second in the Scottish Open Volleyball Tournament in Perth, Scotland.

A former River Ridge High standout, Castelamare played for one of two teams representing USA Athletes International, a non-profit organization that gives amateur athletes and coaches the chance to compete in Olympic-style sporting events internationally. Fellow Bulls setter Mariana Thon also was on the team.

In an e-mail to Bulls coach Claire Lessinger from USA Athletes International program coordinator Rick Stebbins, the latter said: "I traveled with the teams and I must tell you, (Castelamare) represented herself, her school and the United States well!

"I would also like to mention that Brittany was chosen and awarded Most Valuable Player. Quite a feat since the winning team was from Scotland and Brittany was a member of the second-place team!"

Castelamare and Thon teamed for more than 12 assists a game in the Bulls' 6-2 offense (two setters) last season.

About the blog

South Florida Bulls fans, you've come to the right place: the USF Sports Bulletin blog. Tampa Bay Times sportswriter Joey Knight, who covers USF, will post news and thoughts on the Bulletin, and we invite your participation in the comments area. Follow the Times' coverage of USF athletics on Twitter.